Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Disease 

What is Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Disease?

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelids that usually affects both eyes.

It is a very common condition and can occur in both adults and children.

What causes Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Disease?

The exact cause of blepharitis is unknown. One of the most common causes of blepharitis is an infection of eyelids caused by a common bacterium called Staphylococcus. It can also be associated with other skin conditions such as acne & rosacea.

What are the symptoms of Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Disease?

  • a sensation of something in the eye

  • itchiness

  • excessive tears

  • excessive blinking

  • sensitivity to light

  • sore or painful eyelids

  • redness and thickening of eyelid margins

  • dry eyes

What is the treatment for Blepharitis & Meibomian Gland Disease?

While blepharitis is an ongoing condition, the symptoms can be controlled.

Treatment consists mainly of cleaning the eyelids. Artificial tear drops (which are available over the counter at your local chemist) will help any symptoms from associated dry eyes. In more severe cases, you may be prescribed antibiotic drops or tablets for a period of time.

Treatment of blepharitis may take weeks or even months to improve your symptoms. As symptoms can recur, regular long term treatment is recommended.

Suggested cleaning routine for your eyes:

  1. Wash both hands thoroughly.

  2. Clean one eye at a time.

  3. Apply a warm compress (eg wash cloth soaked in warm water) to the eyelid, gently massaging or rubbing the margins of your eyelids whilst your eye is closed for two minutes.

  4. You can also dilute a few drops of baby shampoo or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in warm water and moisten a cleansing pad or cotton tip swab. Work up a lather by folding over the pad and rubbing it between your fingers. Close the eye gently and rub the moistened pad several times over the eyelid and lashes. If you prefer not to make your own cleaning solution, commercial lid cleansers are also available from your local chemist.

  5. Rinse the eyelid thoroughly with warm water and dry carefully.

  6. Repeat the procedure with the other eye using a new cleansing pad.

The eyelid should be cleaned twice a day for three to four weeks until symptoms improve, then twice a week, to maintain eyelid hygiene. If symptoms return start daily cleaning again.

If your eyelids are itchy, do not rub or scratch them as this will worsen the inflammation. Instead, use a warm compress. Contact lenses and eye make-up can further aggravate the condition and should be avoided during treatment.

If blepharitis is left untreated, further eye problems may occur:

  • A stye or chalazion (an inflamed or infected eyelid gland).

  • Conjunctivitis.

  • Eyelashes turning inwards and rubbing on surface of eye.